Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Natural Home Remedies For Lortab Withdrawal

Lortab (hydrocodone and acetaminophen) is a prescription opiate used to treat moderate-to-severe pain. Because of its addictive properties, Lortab may cause withdrawal upon cessation. While there is no cure for opiate withdrawal, over-the-counter medications and supplements can help ease the individual symptoms.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

The gastrointestinal symptoms of Lortab withdrawal are often tortuous. For nausea, the herbs ginger and peppermint can be lifesavers. According to Nih.gov, ginger is as effective as the motion sickness drug Dramamine at relieving some types of nausea, often with fewer side effects. Both herbs can be brewed into a tea and drunk for quick nausea relief.

The anti-diarrheal medication Imodium is a must-have during opiate withdrawal. Its molecular structure is similar to that of Demerol, making it an effective remedy for diarrhea and other GI symptoms without the addictive properties of other opiates.

Joint/Muscle Pain

Over-the-counter pain relievers from the NSAID family, such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen, can be helpful in dealing with the physical pain of Lortab withdrawal. They work by reducing the production of inflammation-causing chemicals called prostaglandins in the body. Acetaminophen is also an effective remedy for pain, especially when combined with medications from the NSAID family.

For topical relief, painkilling ointments such as Icy Hot or Bengay are excellent choices. Other topical ointments containing methyl salicylate or capsaicin can provide relief from joint and muscle pain, as can use of a heating pad or ice pack.

Insomnia

While opiate withdrawal is known for causing fatigue and malaise, most people also experience insomnia, which can compound the problem and create further stress. Over-the-counter medications containing doxylamine succinate (Nyquil, Unisom) can help ease insomnia by helping you fall asleep faster. Sedating antihistamines like Benadryl and Tavist work in a similar fashion and can be equally effective.

In the supplement aisle you'll find a variety of herbal insomnia remedies. Valerian works in a similar manner to diazepam (Valium) by affecting GABA receptors in the brain and can be an effective insomnia remedy for many people. Other relaxing herbs like passionflower, catnip and hops can provide relief from the insomnia of Lortab withdrawal when brewed into a tea or taken in supplement form.

Psychological Symptoms

Dealing with the psychological symptoms of Lortab withdrawal can be a challenge for even the most mentally-stable person. Symptoms such as anxiety, depression and vivid dreams and nightmares can make quitting seem like a daunting task.

St. John's Wort is a popular choice for treating depression and low mood. According to NaturalNews.com, St. John's Wort is as effective as SSRI antidepressants at treating mild-to-moderate depression without unwanted side effects. Other over-the-counter options include 5-HTP, SAM-e and DHEA, all of which can be purchased in most health supplement and grocery stores. For more severe or persistent symptoms, prescription antidepressants or anxiolytics may be needed.

Warning

Herbs and over-the-counter medications can cause dangerous side effects when combined or taken by people with certain health conditions. To reduce the risks of unwanted side effects, talk to your doctor before trying an at-home remedy for Lortab withdrawal.

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